KUALA LUMPUR: Cuepacs has expressed its objection to the proposed setting up of the Local Government Commission by the Johor government.

Cuepacs president Datuk Azih Muda (pic) said there was no basis for having such a commission which went against the Local Government Act (Act 171) 1976.

“Cuepacs is shocked by the announcement as even the Federal government has yet to decide on the setting up of such a commission.

“There is already in existence an appointment mechanism under Act 171,” Azih told reporters on Monday.

On Feb 22, Johor exco for housing and local government Datuk Abd Latif Bandi announced that the Federal government had given its approval to the setting up of the commission in the state.

Cuepacs had subsequently denied that such an approval was given by the Federal government.

Azih said the announcement by Abd Latif had caused worry among some 5,000 workers in the 16 local councils in Johor.

“The setting up of the commission has nothing to do with improving productivity as claimed by Abd Latif.

“Cuepacs doesn’t see any other reason for it but to be used by some parties to oppress council workers by transferring them out,” he added.

Azih said Cuepacs had voiced its objections via letters to the Prime Minister’s Department, the Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government and the Chief Secretary to the Government.

“If Johor is adamant on proceeding with the setting up of the commission, Cuepacs will challenge its legality in court,” he added.

On a separate matter, Azih said Cuepacs would be holding a meeting with the Tourism Ministry to discuss the fate of some 176 staff affected by the closure of 14 Tourism Malaysia offices nationwide.-thestar